Report: Mavericks could target restricted free agent Roy Hibbert

2/10

AP

Ersan Ilyasova / Bucks / SF -- had a wonderful season, averaging 13 points and 8.8 rebounds. But after the All-Star break, he averaged 16.1 and 9.1. He does, however, play the same position as Dirk Nowitzki, and we've seen how power forwards of varying skills often fade when paired with Nowitzki.

It’s obvious the Dallas Mavericks need a big man and
Dwight Howard is the top candidate, but if that scenario doesn’t come into
fruition, Indiana Pacers center Roy Hibbert could be another option.

Hibbert is a restricted free agent and according to
DallasBasketball.com, the Mavs are willing to place a bid on the 7-footer. But the
question is just how much are the Mavs are willing to spend.

Indiana
will likely match a $12-13 million offer so if the Mavs really want Hibbert, they
must be willing to cough up some dough and not just make a modest offer. Dallas will certainly have an even tougher time affording the Georgetown product if
top target Deron Williams does choose to come back home.

The Mavs struggled to find an identity inside after
losing Tyson Chandler to free agency last season and have made it clear they want to bring in someone who can be a presence in the post. Hibbert started 65
games this year and averaged 12.8 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. He was selected to
the NBA All-Star game and helped lead the Pacers to a second round playoff
appearance.

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